Giant Schnauzer Facts

Giant Schnauzers are a large, powerful breed of dog originally developed in Germany for herding and guarding. They’re the largest of the three Schnauzer types (Miniature, Standard, and Giant) and are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and strong protective instincts.

1. Highly Intelligent
   
   • Learn commands quickly
   • Excel at obedience, agility, and protection work
   • Enjoy structured training and “jobs” to do

1. Very Loyal
   
   • Bond closely with their family
   • Naturally protective — great watchdogs

1. Low Shedding
   
   • Their wiry coat doesn’t shed heavily
   • Less fur around the house compared to many breeds
     

1. High Exercise Needs
   
   • Need 1.5–2+ hours of daily activity
   • Get bored easily, which leads to destructive behavior

1. Strong-Willed
   
   • Can be dominant or pushy without consistent training
   • Need a firm, confident handler — not ideal for first-time dog owners

1. Intense Grooming
   
   • Coat needs regular brushing and professional grooming
   • Requires hand-stripping or clipping every few months

1. Protective Nature
   
   • May be wary of strangers or other animals if not well-socialized
   • Natural guard instincts can turn into aggression without proper exposure

1. Mental Stimulation
   
   • Not just physical activity — they need training, puzzles, and interaction
   • Without stimulation, they’ll invent their own (usually bad) entertainment

Are they easy to care for?Only if you’re active, experienced, and committed

If you’re willing to put in the time for training, exercise, and grooming, a Giant Schnauzer can be an incredible, loyal, and rewarding companion. But if you're looking for a low-maintenance dog — this is not the breed for you.

• Most popular crate type for house training and indoor rest
• Good airflow and visibility
• Foldable for storage/travel
• Choose a Large or XL size:
  
  • At least 42"–48" long
• Look for heavy-duty options — Giant Schnauzers are strong and can break out of flimsy crates

✅ Tip: Use a crate with a divider panel if you're crate-training a puppy — so you can expand the space as they grow. 

• Best for strong dogs or escape artists
• Made of reinforced steel or aluminum
• Often used for anxious or destructive dogs
• More expensive but very secure and long-lasting

🟡 Brands to consider: Impact, Gunner, ProSelect Empire

• Used for airline travel or short trips
• Enclosed sides may help with anxiety or noise reduction
• Airline-approved versions often have water dishes and secure locks

🟢 Good for car rides and vet visits, but not ideal for everyday indoor use due to limited airflow

• Large fenced outdoor enclosures — not crates, but useful if you want your dog to spend supervised time outside
• Must be:
  
  • Securely fenced (Giant Schnauzers can jump/climb)
  • Covered if exposed to sun/rain
  • Equipped with shade, shelter, and water

⚠️ Not a substitute for indoor time or daily interaction — Giant Schnauzers need to be part of the family

Dog SizeRecommended Crate Size60–90 lbs (Adult)42"–48" lengthPuppy (Under 6 mos)Use large crate with divider

Look for:

• Animal protein first (chicken, beef, fish, lamb)
• 22–26% protein, 12–16% fat (for adults)
• Omega-3s for skin & coat
• Joint support (glucosamine/chondroitin) helps large breeds

🔹 Recommended Brands:

• Orijen Large Breed
• Acana Wholesome Grains
• Wellness Core Large Breed
• Royal Canin Giant Breed (especially for puppies)
• Taste of the Wild High Prairie

🐾 For puppies, choose large-breed puppy formulas to avoid rapid growth that can cause joint issues.

If feeding raw or cooked, make sure it’s:

• Balanced with the correct calcium/phosphorus ratio
• Made with vet guidance or commercial formulas like:
  
  • The Farmer’s Dog
  • Nom Nom
  • Instinct Raw

• Fish oil (for coat and joints)
• Probiotics (for digestion)
• Joint support as they age (glucosamine, MSM, etc.)

• Non-porous, easy to clean, won’t harbor bacteria
• Heavy-duty options that won’t tip over easily

🔹 Avoid: Plastic bowls (can cause chin acne and hold bacteria)

• Encourages hydration with fresh, filtered water
• Great for active dogs or dogs prone to dry skin

🔹 Brands: PetSafe, Catit, Pioneer Pet

• Use a slicker brush or undercoat rake 2–3x per week
• Bathe every 4–6 weeks with a gentle dog shampoo
  
  • Use anti-itch or oatmeal shampoo if skin is sensitive

🔹 Good products:

• Earthbath Oatmeal Shampoo
• Buddy Wash
• Wahl Odor Control

• Use dog-safe wipes for muddy paws or in-between baths
  
  • Brands: Nature’s Miracle, Earth Rated
• Towel dry after wet walks to prevent skin issues

• Clean crate and food areas weekly with pet-safe disinfectant
  
  • Brands: Rocco & Roxie, Nature’s Miracle Cleaner
• Wash bedding and bowls regularly

• Brush teeth 2–3x per week (or use dental chews)
• Check and clean ears weekly with dog ear cleaner (like Zymox)